The Lehigh Acres Middle School "Challenger" Chapter of the National Junior Honor Society welcomed 44 new members.

The students are leaders not only academically at school, but also as good citizens and leaders throughout the community.

The National Honor Society recognizes outstanding young people in the nation's junior and senior high schools. It requires excellence in scholarship, service, leadership, character and citizenship.

Childhood education conference scheduled

Child Care of Southwest Florida invites early childhood educators and caregivers to Circles of Care, a conference designed to inform and inspire those who work with children from infancy to elementary.

The 19th annual conference will be held April 12 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. at Edison State College in Fort Myers.

Lee County residents currently working at low-skill, low-paying jobs who have not had an opportunity for higher education or previous job training can take advantage of cost-free job training in medical front-office skills.

The seven-month program runs April 22 through November.

Telephone interviews will be accepted through April 18; the class is filled on a first-come, first-served basis and fills up quickly.

All applicants must be working, must provide proof of earned income or unemployment compensation, proof of high school diploma or GED, and proof of Lee County residency; they also must pass a criminal background check and basic assessment in reading, language and spelling.